Ian Padgett
Ian Padgett was bullied at school because of his speech impediment and left with no qualifications.
Ian got involved in a rugby league club – The Hoyland Vikings – in his village. A player for five years, he then took qualifications to become a coach, to “help bring young boys in off the street and give them a better life.” But he wanted to do more than just help them on the pitch.
Because of an accident, Ian had to leave his job in a restaurant: “After my accident I realised that I needed education to be able to mentor the players, for personal fulfilment and to progress a career.”
Starting in December 2007 with a Confidence Building and Assertiveness course, Ian took another 19 short courses at Northern College, starting at Entry Level 3. He has passed his National Tests in Numeracy Level 1 and Literacy Levels 1 and 2 and is now taking an Access to Higher Education course, hoping to go to university to read Social Sciences.
Ian said, “My prime achievement has been teaching myself how to overcome my speech impediment. Staring at myself in the mirror for hours practising, something the experts said I would never do.”
Ian volunteers at MIND in Barnsley helping people with mental health issues and learning disabilities. He has delivered talks to the NHS on Condition Management.
“Learning has given me everything. It has been a means of escape from a dark hole. It has opened up my life, brought me new friends, improved my family life and bolstered my self respect. It brings me daily challenges that I thrive on.”